December, the final month of the Gregorian calendar, is steeped in rich symbolism and celebration. It marks the Winter Solstice, the start of the festive season, and the anticipation of a new year. Alongside these cultural and astronomical milestones, December is also associated with a unique set of natural symbols: its birthstones and birth flower. Unlike most months, December boasts not one but three officially recognized birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon—alongside narcissus, its birth flower. These symbols carry a long history of cultural and spiritual significance, as well as distinct gemological and botanical properties that make them enduringly popular in jewelry and personal adornment.
This article delves into the December birthstones and birth flower, exploring their historical context, gemological characteristics, symbolic meanings, and cultural uses. We will examine how these symbols have evolved over time and how they are valued in modern gemology and jewelry design. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the meaning behind December’s symbols, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview grounded in expert knowledge and historical context.
History and Lore of December’s Birthstones
December is one of the few months with multiple birthstones, a fact that reflects the evolving nature of birthstone traditions. The earliest references to birthstones date back to the Biblical Book of Exodus, where Aaron’s breastplate was adorned with twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In that ancient list, ruby was the gemstone associated with December. However, modern birthstone traditions have diverged significantly from this early prototype.
The modern birthstone list has undergone several revisions since the 19th century. The earliest documented December birthstone was turquoise, as featured in Tiffany & Co.'s "Gregorian Birthstone Poems" pamphlet from 1870. By 1912, the National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) recognized turquoise as the primary December birthstone, with lapis lazuli as an alternative. In 1952, blue zircon was added to the list by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and in 2002, tanzanite was officially recognized as a December birthstone by the American Gem Trade Association. This expansion reflects both the growing diversity in gemstone appreciation and the discovery of new gem materials.
Turquoise: A Stone of Ancient Power and Protection
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones used by humans. Its use dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was highly prized for its vibrant blue-green hues and was used in jewelry, amulets, and even in the decoration of tombs. Pharaohs and other Egyptian rulers were buried with turquoise-adorned items, indicating its perceived protective and spiritual significance.
The Chinese also revered turquoise over 3,000 years ago, using it in carvings and ceremonial objects. In Native American cultures, particularly among the Navajo and Hopi, turquoise was considered a sacred stone, believed to bring good fortune, protection, and healing. It was often used in jewelry and inlay work, symbolizing a connection between the earth and the sky.
Historically, turquoise was also believed to have protective properties against falls—especially when riding horses—and was said to shatter before a disaster to warn the wearer. In Hindu mysticism, turquoise was associated with wealth and prosperity, with some traditions suggesting that viewing turquoise after the new moon could bring financial blessings.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery with Ancient Allure
Tanzanite is the youngest of the three December birthstones, first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Unlike turquoise, tanzanite is a relatively modern gemstone, and its vibrant blue-violet color made it an instant favorite among jewelers and collectors.
Tanzanite’s discovery was a result of mineral exploration for gem-quality materials, and it was initially mistaken for another gemstone—sapphire—before its unique properties were recognized. It was officially named in 1969, and it quickly gained popularity due to its rarity and striking color, which is caused by the presence of vanadium in its crystal structure.
Tanzanite is also notable for its trichroism, a phenomenon in which the gemstone displays three different colors when viewed from different angles—blue, purple, and red. This optical effect adds to its allure and makes it a favorite in modern jewelry design.
Blue Zircon: A Shimmering Ancient Gem
Zircon is an ancient mineral, with some zircon crystals found to be over 4.4 billion years old, making them among the oldest known minerals on Earth. However, blue zircon is not naturally blue—its color is achieved through heat treatment, which transforms the gemstone from its natural brown or reddish hue into a brilliant blue.
Blue zircon has been a popular gemstone for centuries and has been used in various cultures, including in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. It is highly valued for its glassy luster and brilliance, and it is often compared to diamonds and zircons in terms of sparkle and fire.
In the 1950s, blue zircon was added to the list of December birthstones in recognition of its beauty and historical significance. It is also a cost-effective alternative to more expensive blue gemstones, making it a popular choice for everyday jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources of December Birthstones
Understanding the geological origins of December’s birthstones helps to appreciate their rarity and the conditions under which they form. Each gemstone has a distinct geological profile and is found in specific locations around the world.
Turquoise: A Product of the Earth’s Surface
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral composed of copper and aluminum. It forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits, typically in limestone-rich environments. The blue and green hues of turquoise are caused by the presence of copper, while the greenish tones come from iron. The matrix, or the network of veins and lines that often appears in turquoise, is the remnant of the host rock, which can include clay, quartz, or pyrite.
The most famous sources of turquoise are Nevada, USA, Iran, and China. Nevada turquoise is particularly prized for its vibrant blue color and minimal matrix. Iranian turquoise, known as Persian turquoise, is also highly valued for its deep blue color and fine texture. Chinese turquoise, while abundant, is generally lighter in color and more porous than its Middle Eastern and American counterparts.
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it susceptible to scratches and damage. It is also porous, which means it can absorb oils and acids, so it requires careful handling and cleaning.
Tanzanite: A Unique Product of a Single Location
Tanzanite is unique in that it is found only in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. It forms under specific geological conditions where alkaline rocks rich in vanadium are subjected to high heat and pressure. This process transforms the brown or reddish zircon into the blue-violet tanzanite we know today.
The Merelani Hills, near Arusha, are the primary source of tanzanite. The gemstone is mined from alluvial deposits, and its rarity is due to the fact that the geological conditions required for its formation are not found anywhere else in the world. Some experts predict that tanzanite deposits may be depleted within the next few decades, which has led to increased interest in its value and conservation.
Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, which makes it relatively durable, though it can still be damaged by hard impacts or exposure to heat. It also has a trichroic nature, meaning it can show three different colors when viewed from different angles.
Blue Zircon: A Versatile and Ancient Gem
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in a wide range of colors, from brown and red to yellow and blue. However, blue zircon is not found in nature—it is the result of heat treatment, which alters the color centers in the crystal and produces a vibrant blue hue.
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back to over 4.4 billion years ago. It is found in numerous locations around the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, and Brazil. The blue zircon used in jewelry is typically sourced from these regions and is treated to enhance its color.
Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, making it durable enough for everyday wear, though it can be damaged by hard knocks or exposure to high temperatures. It also has a glassy luster and a high refractive index, which gives it a sparkling, diamond-like appearance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of December’s birthstones carries deep symbolic and metaphysical significance, rooted in cultural traditions, spiritual beliefs, and historical uses. These meanings have evolved over time and are still valued today in both spiritual and decorative contexts.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection, Healing, and Communication
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and spiritual communication. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to ward off disease and bring good fortune. The Egyptians used turquoise in amulets and jewelry to protect against illness and misfortune.
In Native American cultures, particularly among the Navajo and Hopi, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that represents the union of earth and sky. It is often used in ceremonial jewelry and inlay work, and it is believed to promote harmony, balance, and spiritual clarity. Some traditions suggest that turquoise can enhance communication and help individuals express their thoughts and feelings more clearly.
In Hindu mysticism, turquoise is associated with wealth and prosperity. It is believed that viewing turquoise after the new moon can bring financial blessings and good fortune. It is also thought to protect against falls and accidents, particularly when riding horses.
Modern metaphysical practices continue to attribute calming and protective properties to turquoise. It is often used in crystal healing to soothe the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional balance. It is also believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness, making it a popular choice for spiritual practitioners and meditation.
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation, Intuition, and Inner Peace
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and emotional healing. Its deep blue-violet color is believed to stimulate the third eye and crown chakras, promoting spiritual insight and higher awareness.
In spiritual traditions, tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation. It is believed to help individuals let go of the past, release emotional blockages, and embrace new beginnings. It is also thought to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a popular choice for mediums, psychics, and spiritual seekers.
Tanzanite is also associated with emotional healing and inner peace. It is believed to soothe the heart, reduce stress, and promote emotional balance. It is often used in crystal healing to help individuals process grief, move on from emotional pain, and find peace within themselves.
Its rarity and beauty also make it a symbol of uniqueness and individuality, encouraging people to embrace their true selves and live authentically.
Blue Zircon: A Stone of Clarity, Hope, and Prosperity
Blue zircon is often associated with clarity, hope, and prosperity. Its sparkling, diamond-like appearance makes it a symbol of brightness and optimism, and it is often used in jewelry to celebrate new beginnings and positive change.
In ancient cultures, blue zircon was believed to bring good fortune and attract abundance. It was used in ceremonial jewelry and amulets to protect against misfortune and attract prosperity.
In modern crystal healing, blue zircon is believed to enhance mental clarity, boost confidence, and promote positive thinking. It is often used to help individuals focus their minds, make clear decisions, and overcome self-doubt. It is also thought to promote emotional balance and inner harmony, making it a valuable tool for meditation and spiritual practice.
Blue zircon is also associated with hope and renewal, making it a perfect gemstone for December, a month that marks the end of one year and the beginning of another.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones. Each gemstone has different physical properties that affect how it should be handled, stored, and cleaned.
Turquoise: Delicate and Porous
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and it is also porous, which makes it susceptible to damage from oils, acids, and moisture.
To clean turquoise, it is best to use a soft, damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone or cause it to lose its color.
When storing turquoise, it is important to keep it in a cool, dry place and to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat, which can cause it to dry out and crack. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones, as harder stones can scratch it.
Tanzanite: Sensitive to Heat and Chemicals
Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, making it relatively durable, but it is sensitive to heat and chemicals, which can alter its color or cause it to crack.
To clean tanzanite, use a soft, damp cloth with a mild detergent. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
When storing tanzanite, keep it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat, which can cause the color to fade or the stone to crack. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Zircon: Durable but Delicate in Some Aspects
Blue zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, making it durable enough for everyday wear, but it can still be damaged by hard impacts or exposure to high temperatures.
To clean blue zircon, use a soft, damp cloth with a mild detergent. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can alter the color or damage the stone.
When storing blue zircon, keep it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat, which can cause the color to fade. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon—along with its birth flower, the narcissus, offer a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and beauty. These symbols have evolved over time, reflecting changes in gemology, culture, and personal expression. From the ancient Egyptians to modern jewelers, these gemstones have been cherished for their protective qualities, healing powers, and stunning beauty.
Whether you are drawn to the calming blue of turquoise, the transformative energy of tanzanite, or the sparkling clarity of blue zircon, there is a December birthstone for every personality and style. These gemstones are not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful symbols of renewal, hope, and personal identity.
As the final month of the year, December is a time of reflection, celebration, and anticipation. Its birthstones and birth flower serve as a beautiful reminder of the natural world’s power to inspire, protect, and transform. Whether you are selecting a December birthstone for yourself or a loved one, these gemstones are a timeless and meaningful choice that carries deep historical and cultural significance.